Historical Christianity and Critical Theory

Many Christians recognize how broken our world is—racism, poverty, and exploitation—and rightly want to do something about it. Contemporary critical theory can be an appealing way to look at the world because it seems to be a loving, other-centered approach.

But the problem with critical theory is that it’s not just a set of ideas; it’s a worldview, a way of seeing the world that answers questions like: “Who are we? Why are we here? What’s wrong with the world? How can this problem be solved? What’s the meaning of life?”

When people adopt the principles of critical theory, their answers to these questions are filtered through that lens. It is no wonder, then, that critical theory is at odds with Christianity on many points.

Who are we?

According to historic Christianity, we are human beings made in the image of a holy, loving, and just God. According to critical theory, our identity is not found in who we were created to be but in how we relate to other groups according to definitions of class, gender, sexual preference, and so on.

What's wrong with the world?

According to historic Christianity, sin against a holy God is what is wrong with the world. According to critical theory, oppression is what is wrong.

How can this problem be solved?

According to historical Christianity, the problem of sin is solved by Jesus taking upon himself the punishment for our sins, dying the death we deserved, thus reconciling us with God.

But according to critical theory, the problem of oppression is solved through activism, awareness-raising, and the overthrow of oppressive systems and their power.

What is the meaning of life?

According to historic Christianity, we live to glorify God. According to critical theory, it is to liberate groups from oppression.